Grand Canyon

Revealing millions of years of geological history, this vast rift in the Colorado Plateau is one of the world’s most recognisable natural landmarks. Stretching 227 miles from the northwest corner of the state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide and up to 6,000 feet deep. Standing at ground level you cannot help but feel humbled in its presence, and atop the steep cliffs you equally cannot help but find yourself in awe at how the Colorado River has carved a path into the rust-coloured sandstone over millennia.

A protected region since 1919, the Grand Canyon National Park is a hotspot for visitors from far and wide – and for good reason. No matter what angle you choose to view this natural wonder from you will leave inspired, especially if you come to see the sun rise or set at Lipan Point.

The Grand Canyon can be accessed from both the North and the South Rim, and the latter is the easiest to reach with countless viewpoints, trails and the Yavapai Observation Station. Tours can be taken by foot, mountain bike, 4x4, mule and helicopter. A hiker’s paradise, venture into the canyon with the popular Bright Angel Trail or walk along the canyon’s rim by taking the South Rim trail – with 595 miles of hiking paths you’ll be spoiled for choice.

A designated wildlife preserve, the North Rim, by contrast, is remote and has a cooler climate with evergreen forests made up of blue spruce, douglas fir, and towering ponderosa pines. Perfect for a scenic drive, watching the changing desert hues during golden hour or visiting during a full moon, a trip to the North Rim can be an equally unforgettable experience.

For the more adventurous traveller, the Grand Canyon can also be accessed by the canyon floor. Go white-water rafting or kayaking along the Colorado River and look up the at the pink, red and brown rock layers that time has created. At the Grand Canyon, you’ll find it’s not hard to immerse yourself in the magnificence of Mother Nature.